Elevate Your Game Day Snacks: Bacon Wrapped Smokies in the Air Fryer
Are you looking for the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s quick, easy, and irresistibly delicious? Look no further than these bacon-wrapped smokies cooked to perfection in the air fryer! With just three simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these savory-sweet treats that are guaranteed to disappear in minutes. Perfect for game day, potlucks, or any occasion where you need a satisfying snack, these bacon-wrapped smokies are sure to be a hit. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make this mouthwatering appetizer in your air fryer!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use regular-sized sausages instead of cocktail smokies? A: Yes, you can substitute regular-sized sausages for cocktail smokies if you prefer. However, you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure that the bacon cooks through.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time and reheat them later? A: Absolutely! You can prepare the bacon-wrapped smokies in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook them. Simply place them in the air fryer when you’re ready to serve, and they’ll be hot and crispy in no time.
Q: Can I use turkey bacon or beef bacon instead of pork bacon? A: Yes, you can use turkey bacon or beef bacon if you prefer a leaner option. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the bacon.
Ingredients:
- 1, 14 oz package Lit’l Smokies cocktail sausages
- 1 pound thick-cut bacon
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, divided
Instructions:
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
- Prepare the Bacon: Cut the bacon slices into thirds. Each slice should be long enough to wrap around one cocktail sausage.
- Wrap the Smokies: Take one cocktail sausage and wrap it with a piece of bacon, securing it with a toothpick. Repeat this process until all the cocktail sausages are wrapped in bacon.
- Coat with Brown Sugar: Pour half of the brown sugar onto a plate or shallow dish. Roll each bacon-wrapped smokie in the brown sugar until evenly coated.
- Air Fry: Place the bacon-wrapped smokies in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not touching each other. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Cook: Air fry the smokies at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and caramelized, and the sausages are heated through.
- Serve: Remove the bacon-wrapped smokies from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving platter. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Heat: For a spicy kick, sprinkle some cayenne pepper or chili powder over the brown sugar before coating the bacon-wrapped smokies.
- Cheesy Twist: Before wrapping the smokies in bacon, insert a small cube of cheese (such as cheddar or pepper jack) into each sausage for a gooey surprise.
- BBQ Glaze: Instead of rolling the smokies in brown sugar, brush them with your favorite barbecue sauce for a tangy twist.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Sugar-Free Option: Replace the brown sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or stevia to keep the carb count low.
- Turkey Bacon: Use turkey bacon instead of pork bacon for a leaner, lower-fat alternative.
With their irresistible combination of smoky bacon, sweet brown sugar, and savory cocktail sausages, these bacon-wrapped smokies are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, they’re the perfect finger food for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a tasty snack, fire up your air fryer and treat yourself to these delicious bites!
